Abstract
Background: We present our experience with laparoscopic cholecystectomy in pregnant patients, with consideration of the physiological changes of pregnancy affecting anesthetic and surgical management.
Methods: We reviewed the medical records of all pregnant patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital between January 1, 1991 and April 30, 1995.
Results: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed without complication in ten patients (gestational age 9–30 weeks). Details of anesthetic and surgical management are described. The anesthetic and surgical implications of pregnancy-associated physiological changes in the gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, and central nervous system are reviewed.
Conclusions: With appropriate attention to the altered physiology of pregnancy, laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed safely and effectively during pregnancy.
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Steinbrook, R.A., Brooks, D.C. & Datta, S. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy during pregnancy. Surg Endosc 10, 511–515 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00188397
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00188397